When N.K. Chaudhary founded Jaipur in 1984, he had a vision of creating rugs that not only enhanced the homes and offices of consumers around the globe, but also the lives of the weavers who make them. Operating under this guiding principle, Jaipur today is not only an industry leader, but a model for corporate social responsibility for its practices in the workplace and beyond.

In particular, the creation of the Jaipur Rugs Foundation sets the company apart for its efforts to assure that global market success translates to local community strength. Today, the foundation provides villages across India with aid in sanitation, health, education, and women’s empowerment programs. The ultimate goal: breaking the cycle of poverty that has plagued these communities for centuries and providing the tools to make them self-sustaining for the long-term.

Perhaps the best proof of Jaipur living up to its founder’s vision came in 2009, when it was awarded SA8000 Certification for Workplace and Human Rights standards, a rare achievement based on international labor organization and United Nations conventions. It’s an honor that acknowledges Jaipur’s dedication to its 40,000 employees as well as its continual efforts to reduce its impact on the environment, both in the communities in which it operates and on the consumer side, with new products featuring recyclable materials and other “green” touches. Jaipur is proud of its social initiatives, and will continue to lead the industry in providing opportunities for its workers, benefits for their communities, and protection for the environment.

Website www.jaipurrugs.org